King James Version

What Does 2 Chronicles 22:5 Mean?

“He walked also after their counsel, and went with Jehoram the son of Ahab king of Israel to war against Hazael king of Syria at Ramothgilead : and the Syrians smote Joram.”

Context

He also walked in the ways of the house of Ahab: for his mother was his counsellor to do wickedly.

Wherefore he did evil in the sight of the LORD like the house of Ahab: for they were his counsellors after the death of his father to his destruction.

He walked also after their counsel, and went with Jehoram the son of Ahab king of Israel to war against Hazael king of Syria at Ramothgilead : and the Syrians smote Joram.

And he returned to be healed in Jezreel because of the wounds which were given him at Ramah, when he fought with Hazael king of Syria. And Azariah the son of Jehoram king of Judah went down to see Jehoram the son of Ahab at Jezreel, because he was sick. which: Heb. wherewith they wounded him Azariah: also called, Ahaziah, ver.I. or, Jehoahaz, ver.21.17.

And the destruction of Ahaziah was of God by coming to Joram: for when he was come, he went out with Jehoram against Jehu the son of Nimshi, whom the LORD had anointed to cut off the house of Ahab. destruction: Heb. treading down

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(5) **He walked also after **(*in*)** their counsel.**—An allusion to Psalm 1:1. He became a close partner in the politics of his ally, and joined in his expedition against the Syrians. The words are not in Kings. **And went with Jehoram.**—2Kings 8:28, “Joram.” **King of Israel.**—Added by chronicler. **Against.**—Kings, “with.” **Hazael king of Syria.**—See Note on 2Kings 8:8, *seq.*; 13:3. **The Syrians.**—Heb., *hārammîm,* instead of *‘Arammîm’* (Kings). So Vulg. and Targum. The Syriac, as usual, confuses Aram with Edom. The LXX. renders “the archers,” as if the word were the participle of *rāmāh, “*to shoot.” Perhaps the chronicler intended *ha-rômîm,* “the archers.” (Comp. 1Samuel 31:3; Jeremiah 4:29.)

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 2 Chronicles. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

2 Chronicles 22:5 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.